Tunisia, a popular Maghreb destination, recorded a significant increase in its tourism revenues in February 2025. This development is particularly encouraging for a sector that has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crises that followed.
A notable increase in tourism revenues
Cumulative labor income in Tunisia increased by 6.2% at the end of February 2025, reaching 1,264 million dinars (approximately 387 million EUR), according to data published by the Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT).
In this perspective, tourism revenues also increased, from 888 million dinars in the first two months of 2024 to 938 million dinars at the end of February 2025, an increase of 5.6%.
On the other hand, cumulative external debt services remained almost stable, amounting to 4.9 billion dinars. Despite these positive developments, net foreign currency assets fell slightly by 0.9%, to 23.2 billion dinars as of March 5, 2025.
Strong Growth in Tourist Inflow
In February 2025, Tunisia welcomed around 1.5 million tourists, which represents an increase of 20% compared to February 2024. The main countries of origin of visitors include France, Germany, and Italy, which continue to be the main source markets. In addition, Tunisia has seen an increase in tourists from Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, attracted by luxury offers and stays combining relaxation and cultural discovery.
Factors Contributing to Growth
Several factors have contributed to this increase in tourism revenue.
- Improved infrastructure: Tunisia has invested in improving its tourism infrastructure, including hotel renovations and improved transportation. These efforts have helped provide a more enjoyable experience for visitors.
- Promotional campaigns: The Tunisian government has launched targeted promotional campaigns to attract tourists, highlighting the country’s cultural and historical richness, as well as its beautiful beaches and gastronomy.
- Enhanced security: Security is a major concern for tourists. Tunisia has strengthened its security measures in tourist areas, which has helped reassure potential visitors.
- Diversification of offers: Tunisia has expanded its tourist offer by proposing thematic tours, wellness stays, and adventure activities, thus attracting a wider audience.
Economic Impact
Increasing tourism revenues have a direct impact on the Tunisian economy. The tourism sector accounts for about 8% of the country’s GDP and employs nearly 400,000 people. The increase in revenues not only contributes to job creation, but also to the revitalization of local businesses, particularly in the hotel, restaurant, and transport services sectors.
Attracting 10 million tourists per year by 2030
The outlook for tourism in Tunisia looks promising. With the continuation of the upward trend in revenues, the country could reach levels of attendance similar to those before the pandemic by 2026. The Tunisian authorities aim to attract 10 million tourists per year by 2030, an ambitious but achievable goal if promotion and infrastructure improvement efforts continue.
Strategy focused on improving the tourist experience
The increase in tourism revenues in February 2025 is a positive sign for Tunisia, which is looking to recover after years of challenges. With a strategy focused on improving the tourist experience and diversifying its offerings, the country is on track to strengthen its position as a tourist destination of choice in the Mediterranean.
Recent figures show a renewed interest in Tunisia. It is therefore essential that the sector’s stakeholders continue to work together. The aim is to capitalize on this momentum and ensure a prosperous future for Tunisian tourism.
